In a tribute to nature’s tranquility and the symbolism of growth, hope, and new beginnings embodied by emeralds, Gemfields has launched its annual Emerald Month campaign, spotlighting the natural beauty of these precious gems. The campaign, which coincides with May, the birthstone month for emeralds, aims to offer an educational journey into the world of emeralds, showcasing both their raw and polished forms while highlighting the mesmerizing inclusions that characterize each gem.
At the heart of the campaign is a celebration of the inclusions, often referred to as ‘jardin’ (French for garden), that adorn emeralds, captured in stunning detail through magnified campaign images by Lotus Gemology. These inclusions, formed during the gem’s creation, serve as nature’s signature, each telling a unique tale to be appreciated and admired.
Emeralds, belonging to the beryl mineral family alongside aquamarine, morganite, and heliodor, have captivated hearts and commanded value throughout history. Gemfields, known for its ethical mining practices, primarily sources emeralds from Zambia, where the gems owe their intense green hue to the presence of chromium, iron, and beryllium in their crystal structure.
Through collaborations with fine jewelry designers worldwide, Gemfields has curated a diverse range of collections that showcase Zambian emeralds in all their splendor. From the Shruti Sushma x Gemfields collection, inspired by Indian heritage, to the IVY New York x Gemfields collaboration offering unique statement rings, each piece invites exploration of the world within each emerald.
When considering the purchase of an emerald, Gemfields recommends following the 7Cs—color, cut, carat, clarity, character, certification/reports, and confidence—as a guideline. Color preference is subjective, but evenness and saturation are often favored, with daylight being the ideal setting for assessment. The emerald cut, renowned for its solid structure and soul-revealing qualities, remains a popular choice among buyers.
Carat weight and clarity play significant roles in determining price, with clear gems typically commanding higher value. The presence of inclusions adds character to emeralds, with some resembling natural phenomena such as leopard spots or creating mesmerizing scenes reminiscent of outer space or ocean depths. Seeking certification from independent gemological laboratories ensures transparency regarding origin and treatments, while purchasing from trusted sources promotes confidence in ethical sourcing practices.
Gemfields remains committed to ensuring that its operations and community projects have a positive impact, striving to uphold ethical standards in the sourcing and production of gemstones. Through initiatives aimed at benefiting local communities and promoting sustainability, Gemfields continues to advocate for responsible practices within the gemstone industry.
